‘If we don’t build churches, what are we doing?’ President Ruto defends huge donations

President William Ruto has defended his contributions to churches, declaring that his government will continue contributing to religious institutions despite growing criticism.

Speaking at AIPCA church in Meru on Thursday, President Ruto emphasized that the partnership between the government and the church is not new, claiming it dates back to Kenya’s struggle for independence.

He asserted that his administration would not be swayed by those accusing it of using massive donations to gain influence in the church. 

"The Church of God must be built. Let me ask you, if we don’t build churches, what are we doing?" Ruto posed. 

"Mimi najenga barabara, najenga hostels, halafu nisijenge kanisa? This is the Church of God. Since the days of Kenya’s fight for independence, this has been the Church of government."

The President's remarks come against the backdrop of a controversial incident at a church in Kasarani, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies were attacked during a service, an incident that has reignited debate about politicians' respect for religion and places of worship.

"These people are arrogant. They attack the church one day, then days later, they show up to hold a fundraiser, hoping people forget," Gachagua stated following the incident. 

In response to rising insecurity in parts of Meru County, the government pledged action to quell tensions and apprehend culprits. 

"The same medicine we used in North Rift, the one for Al-Shabaab in Boni, that same medicine will be used here to fix this long-standing issue," Deputy President Kithure Kindiki stated.